Freddie Woodman, on loan with Scottish Premiership side Aberdeen, has impressed on his debut by keeping a clean sheet against Hamilton and has been making all the right impressions north of the border.

The England Under-20 World Cup winner has age on his side as well the backing of the fans after coming through the ranks at St. James' Park. It should convince Rafa Benitez to place his faith in the Englishman's potential, rather than Sels.

January loan signing Martin Dubravka is yet to make his debut for the club after joining from Sparta Prague, but he is renowned for his impressive footwork that allows him to start attacks from within his penalty area.

Martin Dubravka.

That is something the one-time Slovakia international boasts an advantage over the rigid Sels, who showed in his first season with the club that he is much more adept at clearing his lines at the first sight of danger.

With Karl Darlow and Rob Elliot also vying for the number one jersey and reports suggesting that the Toon can sign Dubravka permanently for as little as £4million, surely there is no way back for Sels as he would be fifth choice.

Will Butcher

Sports journalist who graduated in 2016 from Staffordshire University, and has since worked for Football Insider. Obsessed with anything football related. Still dreaming of a Premier League return for Leeds United.